In 1969 Elvis sang the song In the Ghetto for the first time. This song was about a boy who didn’t have a chance because it seemed his future was preordained. Because of his environment, he would face a prospect of living and dying in the street.
There was a boy whose birth is recorded in 1 Chronicles 4:9-10 whose life could have mimicked Presley’s song. His name was Jabez and his future didn’t look good. Then a prayer to God made all the difference.
1 Chronicles 4:9-10
Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request.
This prayer was very short, but is one of the most powerful prayers in the Old Testament. Sincerity, not verbiage, is what moves the hand of God.
What are your prayers like?
Think about it.
Gary